Ex-Navy SEAL Faces Preliminary Hearing on Theft and Securities Charges

A former Navy SEAL accused of stealing more than $1 million from comrades who invested in his money-lending business is scheduled to appear Monday at a hearing that will determine if he must stand trial.

of grand theft and securities violations. His preliminary hearing at the downtown courthouse begins this morning.

Deputy District Attorney Hector Jimenez alleged that Mullaney used his standing as a former SEAL to get others to invest in his Trident Financial Holdings & Acquisitions, then used the money for his personal gain.

The alleged victims include former and active SEALs, the prosecutor said.

“If people wanted to borrow money, Mr. Mullaney would give you a hard loan, with interest. That was the plan anyway,” Jimenez said at the defendant's arraignment in August.

“Mr. Mullaney got people to invest in his company so he could have money to lend. He made some loans, but unfortunately, he didn't use the money as he said he would.”

After the preliminary hearing, a judge will decide if enough evidence was presented for Mullaney to stand trial. He faces 34 years in prison if convicted.

– City News Service